30th June 2011

Surrounded By Love

“Many are the woes of the wicked, but the LORD’s unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in him.”Psalm 32:10 (NIV)

We are living in uncertain times; a changing world. Man-made and natural disasters can happen anytime and anywhere on earth. Personal tragedy may just be a matter of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. In such times, trust in God is of vital importance. It makes no sense to wait until you are the victim of a tragic incident or event and then, somehow try to trust in God. Your own faith may not be strong enough!

Trust or faith is a gift involving the Father, the Son and the Spirit. “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” (James 1:17). He advises us to listen to his Son. “While he was still speaking, a bright cloud covered them, and a voice from the cloud said, ‘This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!’” (Matthew 17:5). Jesus then instructs us to believe or trust in him. “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.” (John 14:1). And finally trust or faith is a gift of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Do not make the mistake of relying on your own faith; it is the faith of Christ on which we must depend.

The triune God is completely involved with the dispensing of this precious gift. The Psalmist wrote that those who trust in the Lord will not be disappointed (Psalm 22:5). As shown in the anchor scripture above, they are surrounded by his love. How comforting it is to know that you are always surrounded by God’s unfailing love, even during difficult times. Being surrounded by God’s love does not mean you will live a charmed life! It means that all things, whether good or bad are working together for your good. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

Prayer
Thankyou, Father, for the love which you have lavished on me. Help me to live by the faith of Christ, for his faith is completely reliable.
Amen